Tyler Alexander Szadaj
Obituary

We are devastated to share that Tyler Alexander Szadaj, unexpectedly departed his voyage of this life on August 13, 2026.

Tyler was born March 3, 2000 in New Haven, CT to Kelle (Tyler) Szadaj and Brandon Szadaj. He graduated from Maloney High School in Meriden, CT, the class of 2018. He went on to attend Drexel University in PA for a short time, majoring in Statistics, until he discovered what would make him most fulfilled.

Tyler was happiest helping people, which led him to his career of 911 Dispatcher. This was no surprise to his family. Throughout his short life, he was extremely passionate about the Red Cross, held countless blood drives and donated often. He started his 911 Dispatcher journey in Chester County, PA, bounced to Omaha, Nebraska to continue his career, and finally settled in Seattle, Washington, as a Tier 2 / 911 Dispatcher.

Tyler was smart beyond his years, but never took himself too seriously. His clumsiness was classic! In his teen years, he loved fishing trips with his Dad, and lots of concerts with both his Dad and Step-Dad. He truly loved music. However, he was most happy when he was on the road to anywhere - he loved driving on the open road to new places and adventures. Some of his most treasured times were spent at his Grandma and Grandpa’s house. He had the gift of making friends everywhere he ended up - he knew how to make people feel special, valued, and important. He loved, and was loved, beyond measure.

Left to mourn his tragic loss are his Mom and Step-Dad, Kelle and Scott DeRico of Meriden, CT, his Sisters, Violet Szadaj of Orlando, Florida, and Brooke DeRico of Meriden, CT, his Godmother/Aunt, and Uncle, Dena and Paul Virgulto, and cousins Stephanie and Sara Neilson, of Wallingford, CT, his paternal Grandpa, Charles Szadaj, and his Godfather/Uncle, Sean Szadaj, of South Carolina, and his longtime partner, who stood by him always, Charlie Harper of Seattle, Washington.

Tyler was predeceased by his Father, Brandon Alexander Szadaj, his maternal Grandparents, Kristine Kitsos (“Yiayia”) and Michael Tyler (“Pop-Pop”), and his paternal Grandma who was one of his best friends, Janet Bugliari Szadaj (“Grape”).

Burial will be private. We ask that you please donate blood to the American Red Cross, or make a donation to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention in his memory.

redcross.org

afsp.org